My Favorite Thanksgiving Dessert: Dutch Apple Cream Cheese Pie

Thanksgiving is a time for gathering with loved ones, sharing gratitude, and, of course, enjoying delicious food! While turkey and stuffing often take center stage, dessert is where the real magic happens. This year, why not treat your guests to something truly special? Dutch apple cream cheese pie is the perfect combination of sweet, creamy, and tart, making it an unforgettable addition to your holiday table.

What Makes Dutch Apple Cream Cheese Pie Special?

Dutch apple cream cheese pie combines the best elements of a classic apple pie with a rich and creamy twist. The creamy layer adds depth and flavor, perfectly balancing the sweetness of the apples and the warm spices that make fall desserts so comforting. It’s a dessert that pleases everyone—from apple pie lovers to those seeking something a little different.

Ingredients

For the Pie Crust:

• 1 pre-made pie crust (or homemade if you prefer)

For the Cream Cheese Layer:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 egg

For the Apple Filling:

• 4-5 medium-sized apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or your favorite variety)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour

For the Topping:

• 1/2 cup old-fashioned oats
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup butter, softened
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• A pinch of salt

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare the Pie Crust:
   Roll out your pie crust and fit it into a 9-inch pie pan. Trim any excess crust hanging over the edges and crimp as desired. Place the crust in the refrigerator while you prepare the filling.
3. Make the Cream Cheese Layer:
   In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Add the egg and mix until fully incorporated. Spread this mixture evenly over the bottom of the chilled pie crust.
4. Prepare the Apples:
   Peel, core, and slice the apples into thin slices. In a large bowl, toss the apple slices with sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and flour until well coated.
5. Layer the Apples:
   Arrange the apple mixture on top of the cream cheese layer, spreading it evenly.
6. Make the Topping:
   In a separate bowl, combine oats, brown sugar, flour, softened butter, cinnamon, and salt. Mix until crumbly. Sprinkle the oat mixture generously over the apples.
7. Bake the Pie:
   Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the topping is golden brown. If the edges of the crust start to brown too quickly, cover them with aluminum foil.
8. Cool and Serve:
   Allow the pie to cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature, optionally topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

Conclusion

Dutch apple cream cheese pie is not just a dessert; it’s a delightful experience that adds a unique twist to your Thanksgiving celebration. The creamy layer paired with the spiced apples creates a flavor combination that is both comforting and indulgent. This pie is sure to impress your guests and become a cherished tradition at your holiday gatherings. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to bake this delicious pie that will have everyone coming back for seconds! Happy Thanksgiving!

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